Max Kellerman, once considered a rising star at ESPN, has made a noteworthy return to the sports media landscape after a period away from the network. Initially gaining fame as an analyst on ESPN’s boxing series, Friday Night Fights, Kellerman served as the original host of Around the Horn before a contract dispute led him to part ways with the network. Following a stint on ESPN Radio, he took over First Take from Skip Bayless, engaging in high-profile debates with Stephen A. Smith until his departure in 2021, which was reportedly prompted by Smith’s request to end their partnership.
After staying largely out of the public eye, Kellerman re-emerged earlier this year by participating in a Netflix boxing event and hosting a show for Ring Magazine. This week, he made an appearance on The Bill Simmons Podcast, where he openly discussed his tumultuous exit from ESPN and his feelings towards Smith.
Simmons kicked off the conversation by asking Kellerman how it felt to see others discuss his departure while he remained silent. Kellerman responded with an unexpected level of gratitude for the public’s interest, saying, “I was very flattered… people seemed to care.” He emphasized the importance of privacy in professional relationships, noting that while he refrained from disclosing specifics about his time on First Take, the intrigue surrounding his exit was appreciated.
The conversation took a turn as Simmons brought up his views on Smith’s handling of their partnership’s aftermath. Kellerman frankly acknowledged that he understood why a competitive figure like Smith would not prefer to debate him daily, likening himself to a tough opponent in a boxing ring. “If you’re doing a debate show and you’re a competitive person, why would you want me as a partner?” he posed, suggesting that the nature of their dynamic made it challenging for Smith.
Simmons further explored the dynamics of Kellerman’s replacement on First Take, noting that Smith seemed eager to establish himself as a “solo act” rather than as part of a two-person format. Kellerman, while not in need of a debate partner, echoed the sentiment that two voices in a discussion can create a richer interaction. He reflected on his time with Smith, stating that he never quite felt the relationship deepening during their on-air collaborations.
As Kellerman continues to navigate his new chapter in sports media, his reflections not only shed light on the personal challenges faced during his time at ESPN but also highlight the ever-evolving nature of sports commentary and debate shows. His honesty and candor may resonate with audiences eager for authentic discussions in what is often a competitive and cutthroat industry.